1. Family Brachaeluridae Blind sharks

2. Classification Kingdom Animalia Phylum Chordata Class chondrichthyes Order Family Brachaeluridae 2 Genera 2 species

3. Brachaelurus waddi- blind shark Heteroscyllium colchoughi – bluegrey carpet shark

4. Anatomical characteristics of the family Small transverse mouth in front of eyes Large spiracles behind eyes 2 spineless dorsal fins Anal fin just before caudal fin Short precaudal tail Long barbels Blue/grey or, brown color with spots 1.2 m long

5. Habitat West South Pacific Off Australia From intertidal to 100m In shore coral reefs Rocky shoreline

6. Food habits Small fish, crustaceans, cuttlefish, sea anemones Nocturnal feeders

7. Reproduction Ovoviviparous B. waddi 7-8 young in November H. colcloughi -6-8 young

12. B. waddi Brown on dorsal surface with white spots Dark saddles on young East Australia nocturnal Hides in caves and under ledges during day. Rocky shores and reefs Red list-least concern

13. H. colcloughi Max = 75cm Greyish/blue dorsal surface Young’s caudal fin has black markings Very shallow inshore areas Red list- vulnerable/ rare